Pigeon Worldwide

Sending medicines abroad from India — rules

How to courier prescription and ayurvedic medicines abroad from India: prescription and doctor's letter, personal quantities, original packing and country restrictions (UAE, Japan, USA, UK).

In short: Medicines can be sent for personal use with a prescription and doctor's letter, in original packing and personal quantities. Some countries (UAE, Japan, Saudi) restrict certain medicines; we hold the parcel until documents are received.

Many families send regular medicines to parents, students or relatives abroad. It is possible — but medicines are the item customs checks most closely, so documents matter.

What you need

  1. Prescription in the receiver's name.
  2. Doctor's letter on letterhead describing the condition and dosage (in English).
  3. Original packing with labels and batch details — no loose strips in plastic bags.
  4. Personal quantity — generally no more than a few months' supply.

Country notes

  • UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar: some common medicines contain controlled ingredients and need prior approval. Check before sending.
  • Japan: more than about one month's supply needs an import certificate (Yakkan Shoumei).
  • USA: FDA may refuse medicines not approved in the USA.
  • UK/EU: personal quantities with prescription are usually fine; controlled drugs need licences.
  • Australia: limited personal supply with prescription; some ingredients are restricted.

Never send

  • Narcotic or psychotropic medicines without explicit approval
  • Liquids in glass bottles without leak-proof packing
  • Medicines for resale

How we handle medicine parcels

Medicine bookings are marked for document check. A small handling charge may apply, and dispatch happens once the prescription and doctor's letter are on file.

Frequently asked questions

Can I courier medicines from India?

Yes, for personal use, with a valid prescription and a doctor's letter, in original packing and reasonable personal quantities. Some medicines are restricted at the destination.

Can I send ayurvedic or siddha medicines?

Usually yes, in sealed original packs with ingredient labels, but some countries treat them like regular medicines. Include a doctor's note.

Why is my medicine parcel on hold?

We hold medicine parcels until the prescription and doctor's letter are received, to avoid seizure at destination customs.

Ready to ship?

Doorstep pickup, packing advice and customs paperwork handled by our team.

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